Key Messages
The Finnish metal refining industry has already made significant progress in reducing emissions. However, the largest investments in zero-emission solutions are still ahead. It is essential to avoid increasing the administrative burden on companies. Instead, the focus should be on impactful and cost-effective regulation and permitting processes that consistently promote industrial transformation and the competitive advantage gained from sustainability. This applies particularly to EU-level regulation, but also to the national implementation of EU directives, including accounting for regional specificities that may necessitate deviations.
Decision-making based on researched knowledge and a comprehensive, cross-border understanding of climate and environmental challenges is crucial for effectively advancing sustainable development. The Finnish metal refining industry is already among the global leaders in environmental performance and is a key part of our export sector and our growing positive environmental impact.
We view strengthening the development opportunities for industrial parks as a key way to promote the circular economy and create competitive advantages for our member companies operating within them.
To advance the circular economy, regulatory barriers must be dismantled, and it must be ensured that waste, product, and chemical regulations form a clear and enabling framework.
Heavy metal emissions from industry into water and air have decreased. In assessing water quality, it is increasingly important to distinguish the natural load growth caused by climate change from other factors.
Policy Directions
- In low-carbon initiatives, the emphasis should shift from regulation to implementing goals and building the enabling conditions necessary for transformation.
- A favorable investment environment is created through regulatory coherence and streamlined, predictable permitting and authority processes.
- Avoid additional national regulations when implementing EU legislation. Flexibilities at the national level should be utilized where possible to promote low-carbon initiatives.
- The circular economy cannot function without metal refining. Developing the operating conditions for the industry lays the foundation for circular economy growth.
- Waste and by-products should primarily be seen as raw materials and made more readily available for circular economy use.
Key EU Initiatives and Reforms
- Circular Economy Act
- New Chemicals Industry Package
- European Water Resilience Strategy
- Soil Monitoring Law